Airspace Management implements which instrument?

• A. The Joint Operations Plan.
• B. The Airspace Control Order, or ACO.
• C. The Command and Control Procedures Manual.
• D. The Integrated Air Defense Strategy.

Answer: (B)

Airspace Management uses a formal instrument that publishes how airspace will be allocated and what restrictions apply. The Airspace Control Order is that instrument. It translates the airspace plan into actionable measures, listing active airspace areas (restricted, prohibited, warning), the times they’re in effect, and the specific control measures and units involved. This makes it clear to all airspace users what is authorized and when, ensuring safe and efficient operations across the battlespace.

Other options serve different roles. The Joint Operations Plan is broader planning guidance rather than the day-to-day instrument that controls airspace. The Command and Control Procedures Manual outlines how C2 should be conducted, not the actual airspace restrictions. The Integrated Air Defense Strategy provides overall defense guidance, not the specific, time-bound airspace control measures published in an ACO.